<i>The Independent</i> Focus Group - Americas - World - The Independent

More than half of Afghanistan’s families live in extreme poverty

Leila is watching her baby intently, as his mouth moves trying to swallow the small blob of yellow p...

Time for a new approach to alcohol

Ambulances were called and three drunk teenagers were brought to my care. One was so drunk we had to...

Bahrain: One year on

I am used to endless lies and criticism from the BNP and its favourite blogster, as well as Islamist...

Paul Volcker stands tall against the banking lobby

Why is Europe, which likes to present itself as an opponent of speculative "Anglo-Saxon" finance, li...

Mary Beth Ray, 48, Republican, Washington DC, lawyer and housewife

The VPcandidatecovered all the bases, reiterating his middle class roots and foreign policy credentials, and trying to add specifics to Obama's record. The Bill and Joe show provided theone- two punch that the Democrats needed.

Laura DeBusk, 38,Democrat, Virginia, housewife

Joe Biden didn't deliver the rousing, emotional speech that I expected but he assumed the necessary role of going after John McCain's positions and policies. Joe Biden's real strength will be in debates and connecting with blue collar workers. I think Joe Biden will be a huge asset.

Renee Van Vechten, 39, Democrat, California, Professor of Political Science

Tough, understandable, Joe Biden left no doubt why he was chosen for thesecond spot on the ticket. Though there won't be any roof to blow away at Invesco stadium Thursday, Obama has been well-prepped to reach for new presidential heights.

Joseph McManus, 62,Republican, Washington DC, lawyer

Joe Biden's speech was certainly a great celebration of the life of Joe Biden.Beyond that, the usual Bush bashing and general Democratic nostrums for improvement. Certainly he played his part well in the surprise visit of Obama.

For rolling comment on the US election visit: independent.co.uk/campaign08

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